Born in Hazleton, he was the son of the late Leo and Hannah (Brogan) Gallagher. Jimmy was a 1956 graduate of MMI in Freeland. After serving for four years in the Air Force, he earned his master's degree in education from Penn State University.

He was employed for many years as a math teacher at Liberty High School in New York, after beginning his career at Milford High School in Pennsylvania.

He is survived by his sisters, Rosemarie Gallagher of Freeland, PA, Mary Brennan of Conyngham, PA; and Patricia Marcolina of Lancaster, PA; as well as, his brother-in-law, James Marcolina of Lancaster and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death was his brother, Gerald Gallagher.

Jimmy was a wonderful brother, uncle, friend, and teacher, and will be greatly missed by so many.

A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Parish at St. Ann's Church, Freeland PA. Burial was in St. Ann's Cemetery, Freeland.